Reece Oxford has had a dizzying few months.
When the West Ham defender arrived at Borussia Monchengladbach, the hopes attached to him were too high. Gladbach had just seen Andreas Christensen return to Chelsea after a two year loan and there was an assumption from some in the German media that Oxford could fill the gap.
It took the youngster a while to settle in and just as he was getting going, reports emerged West Ham would take him back. That happened, with the Hammers using a clause they had to recall Oxford halfway through the season.
Then there were suggestions Oxford could be sold elsewhere, but he’s still at West Ham and hasn’t got on the pitch.
Gladbach remain hopeful the 19 year old could be returning to them, and the club’s sporting manager Max Eberl has confirmed efforts are continuing.
Speaking on the German club’s website, Eberl explained: “We talked a lot to West Ham during the winter break and were surprised when they used the clause. The tone in the discussions before was actually a different one. But I understand their intention: West Ham is in a relegation battle and wanted to bring back a good player.
“So far they have not used him, so the talks continue. I hope that there will be no big offer from another club. Then we have a chance for Reece to come back to us. He has developed well with us over the five months. He had to wait for his chance, but then used it impressively.”
A return to Borussia Monchengladbach, and being used, is surely better for the player’s development than not getting games.
